Hopkins River (New Zealand)

The Hopkins River is a braided river located in the South Island of New Zealand. It flows south from the Southern Alps into the northern end of Lake Ohau. The river is primarily fed by glacial meltwater and snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, giving it a characteristic milky blue-grey color.

The Hopkins River valley is a popular location for hiking, hunting, and fishing. Access to the river is typically via the Hopkins Valley Track. The surrounding landscape is dominated by steep mountain slopes covered in tussock grassland and beech forest.

The river is subject to significant fluctuations in flow depending on weather conditions and seasonal snowmelt. These fluctuations can make river crossings challenging.

The Hopkins River is part of the Waitaki River catchment. Its waters ultimately flow into the Pacific Ocean. The river is relatively unmodified by human activity compared to other rivers in the region, retaining much of its natural character.